[L473ncy]

Don't get the $800 GT. My current commuter is the $500 GT Karakoram 4.0 (they call it the Comp these days I think). Bought off Pinkbike for $360. BTW GT is owned by Cannondale/Dorel (who also owns Iron Horse cycles and Mongoose (I used to have a Mongoose IBOC)) so if you get a GT it'll basically have the same kit on it as a Cannondale (the Cannondale Trail series and GT Karakoram have basically the same frame geometry and kit on them).

It might not be a popular brand out that way but Brodie Bikes if you get a "last year" model can be found fairly cheap ($399 new IIRC) if you're looking for a basic full rigid commuter (Brodie Bolt). Kona's are good too.

I know it can be hard if you work nights (although my dad was actually there for my brothers and I, minus the occasional overnight stay out of town when he was out in the field) but rest assured at least you're trying and that's commendable.